1991 Lancia Delta

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys Monterey event, 15 - 16 August 2025.
Offered Without Reserve $90,000 - $130,000 USD

• Italian-market example retained within the family of its original owner until 2024; reportedly one of just 200 true homologation examples produced
• Remarkably preserved, time capsule condition provided with outstanding documentation, and even its 1991 date-coded tires
• Presented with fewer than 6,550 km (4,070 mi.) traveled since new; recent comprehensive servicing by a specialist
• Desirably specified from the factory with special-purpose water bag, sunroof delete, Recaro seats, Bosch anti-lock braking system, Clarion head unit, air conditioning, and split rear seat

In 1991, Lancia launched the Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione as a homologation special to meet Group A regulations, widening the track and flaring the wheel arches. They also added bonnet vents, a larger grille, and a tailgate spoiler to improve cooling and airflow. Underneath, they upgraded the brakes with twin-piston calipers, strengthened the suspension, and added a front strut brace and a larger steering box. The Evoluziones remapped 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four delivered 210 horsepower, breaking the 100-horsepower-per-liter mark for the first time in Deltas production history.

Delivered new in December 1991 to Lancia dealer Auto 2000 in Terni, this Italian-market Evoluzione is a remarkable, unrestored example of one of the most iconic and successful rally homologation cars ever built. A San Gemini resident purchased this Evoluzione new and insisted the dealer leave all protective coverings intact. Auto 2000s dealer principal, Sandro Barcaroli, reinforced this by writing in red lipstick on the dash cover: Do not remove cellophane. Do not wash. Do not remove sponges from inside the engine bay. Kept in the original owners family for over 30 years, the car now shows just 6,550 kilometers (4,070 miles) and remains remarkably preserved.

Finished in a beautifully understated combination of White over Green perforated Alcantara, this Evoluzione was factory-specified with an exceptionally rare list of features including Recaro seats, Bosch ABS, a Clarion head unit, air conditioning, and a split rear seat configuration. Notably, it was ordered without a sunroof, further emphasizing its performance focus.

According to model experts, this particular car is even more special as it is one of the reported 200 true homologation examples uniquely equipped with a special-purpose water bag designed to cool the turbo intercooler during intense use a real motorsport feature. While most of these early cars were delivered with disconnected systems, this example retains its factory-connected water bag system, with all hoses date-stamped from 1991. Mechanically, the car has just benefited from a comprehensive full service by a recognized specialist.

In every sense, this car is a true time capsule. It remains completely unrestored, with original factory markings, factory wax, and protective plastics still present on the floors and door panels. This Evoluzione even still wears its 1991 tires, underscoring its lifetime of careful preservation. Further underlining the extraordinary originality and provenance of this Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione is the remarkable completeness of its documentation and accessories (inventory on file).

The Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione remains one of the most revered performance icons of the late 20th century. With its rally-bred DNA, superb balance, and analog driving experience, few cars offer the same combination of performance and soul. This car, with its rare factory specifications, pristine originality, low mileage, recent servicing, and unique backstory, is among the very best in existence and a true jewel for any serious collector.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo25/.